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Preconstruction Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Preconstruction Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all pre-construction activities for assigned projects within a defined market sector. This role plays a critical part in ...

Preconstruction Manager

Fresno, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

We're looking for a Preconstruction Manager - Design-Phase Leadership who thrives in a collaborative, deadline-driven environment and is committed to delivering a high level of service to every ...

Preconstruction Manager

Irvine, CA

$121K - $124K/yr

Under limited supervision, the Preconstruction Manager is responsible to coordinate all aspects of design build and hard bid technical proposal assembly prior to award, followed by buying ...

Showing results 41-60

Preconstruction information

See California salary details

$58.7K

$121.5K

$173.7K

How much do preconstruction jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for preconstruction in California is $121,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,200.00 and $142,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is preconstruction a good career?

Preconstruction is a valuable career in the construction industry, involving planning, budgeting, and project coordination before construction begins. It requires skills in project management, estimating, and communication, and often offers opportunities for advancement and stability. Success in this field depends on experience, certifications, and understanding of construction processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the preconstruction position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Preconstruction, you need strong analytical skills, construction knowledge, and expertise in cost estimating, often supported by a degree in construction management or a related field. Proficiency with estimating software (like Bluebeam or ProEst), project management tools, and understanding of plans and specifications is typically required. Excellent communication, organization, and negotiation skills set standout candidates apart in this highly collaborative phase of construction. These abilities are vital to accurately scope projects, control costs, and ensure efficient planning for successful project delivery.

What does a preconstruction professional do?

A Preconstruction job focuses on the planning and preparation phase of a construction project before physical work begins. Responsibilities typically include budgeting, scheduling, feasibility analysis, value engineering, and coordinating with clients, architects, and contractors. The goal is to ensure the project is financially viable, well-planned, and aligns with client expectations. Effective preconstruction helps minimize risks, reduce costs, and streamline project execution.

What are preconstruction jobs?

Preconstruction jobs involve planning and preparing for a construction project before actual building begins. Roles include estimating costs, developing project schedules, reviewing designs, and coordinating with clients and contractors to ensure project feasibility and readiness. These positions often require knowledge of construction processes, project management, and relevant software tools.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working in preconstruction?

Professionals in Preconstruction are often responsible for reviewing project plans, preparing detailed cost estimates, coordinating with architects, engineers, and subcontractors, and identifying potential construction challenges early in the process. Their daily tasks frequently involve reviewing bid documents, creating schedules, analyzing alternatives, and presenting findings to both internal teams and clients. Collaboration is central, as they work closely with project managers, designers, and clients to ensure that all pre-project planning aligns with budget and schedule goals. This stage sets the foundation for the entire construction process, making attention to detail and proactive problem-solving essential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Preconstruction jobs in California?

The most popular types of Preconstruction jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Preconstruction jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Preconstruction jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Preconstruction jobs?

Cities in California with the most Preconstruction job openings:

Infographic showing various Preconstruction job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,545 per year, or $58.4 per hour.

Preconstruction Manager - Mission Critical

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

Sacramento, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


McCarthy Building Companies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Preconstruction Manager is a key role within our Preconstruction/Estimating department and should have a strong understanding of estimating principles. Depending on the specifics of the project, the Preconstruction Manager may be the primary day-to-day contact of the Owner and the design team. On more complex pursuits, the Preconstruction Manager may support a Preconstruction Director. This position is specifically focused on the Estimating and Design Management of Mission Critical facilities.

This position is located in a geographic area where McCarthy has an office. A candidate who does not live in an area with a McCarthy office will need to relocate. If relocation is required, McCarthy offers a generous relocation package.   

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Primary responsibilities include cost estimating (both conceptual and detailed), design management, estimating team oversight, and presentation of cost related information to internal and external partners.
  • Build and maintain relationships with owners, subcontractors, vendors, internal clients and other key stakeholders, representing McCarthy on the jobsite, in the community and at industry events
  • Track and manage project budget. Heavy focus on flexibility, creativity, and clear communication to clients and design partners.
  • Prepare qualifications for project that align with contractual obligations, ensuring requirements are adhered to throughout the course of project and submitting contract documents for legal review
  • Close coordination with onsite project management team as it pertains to subcontracts, schedule of values, and subcontractor buyout.
  • Implement and oversee preconstruction and construction schedule
  • Assist in training and development of project staff, and manage risk by implementing all applicable safety and EEO/Affirmative Action programs
  • Manage and maintain all documentation/deliverables, presenting them to project owner in organized manner
  • Represent McCarthy at design and coordination meetings, providing any alternative solutions and assisting in design decisions
  • Participate in the subcontractor prequalification process. Build relationships with trade partners and vendors in the Mission Critical industry.  
  • Participate in response to RFPs and RFQs. 
  • Manage the buyout log and chart of accounts.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture or Engineering, and/or 7+ years of applicable preconstruction, estimating, design management, and/or field management experience
  • 3+ years of experience working on Mission Critical facilities in preconstruction or operations
  • In-depth knowledge of construction principles/practices required
  • Electrical Contractor and Mechanical Contractor preconstruction experience a plus
  • Strong understanding of MEP systems 
  • Strong familiarity with the specifics of Mission Critical facility design and construction schedule.
  • Experience with alternative delivery projects, including cost modeling, cost trending, and GMPs.
  • Experience estimating self-perform disciplines, including labor and material pricing.
  • Experience dealing with subcontracts, subcontractors and/or self-perform work
  • Experience leading successful team ventures, including the development of employees and maintaining relationships with external entities and subcontractor community
  • Demonstrate behaviors consistent with McCarthy core values while maintaining a "value added" approach to preconstruction

McCarthy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

For California locations only, the salary range for this position is: $111,500 - $139,400. This does not include possible bonus and other benefits which can impact total compensation. Compensation offered may vary based on work location, experience, qualifications, specialty, training, and market and business considerations, among other factors.


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About McCarthy Building

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McCarthy Building, headquartered in Saint Louis, MO, US, is a leading construction company primarily offering general contracting, design-build and construction management services throughout the United States. Its prominent industry presence can be explored in detail on its official website, mccarthy.com. Founded in 1864, the company has built a robust legacy marked by significant contributions to the U.S. construction industry. McCarthy Building engages a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, renewable energy, and advanced technology.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1864

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